Responsible Gambling
Gambling can be an enjoyable activity, but it can also become harmful. This page provides guidance and direct links to free UK support services.
Who Should Not Gamble
- Anyone under the age of 18
- Anyone experiencing financial difficulty
- Anyone using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or other problems
- Anyone who cannot control their gambling behaviour
Stay in Control
All UK Gambling Commission-licensed operators are required to offer responsible gambling tools. These include deposit limits, session time limits, reality checks, cooling-off periods, and self-exclusion options. You can access these through your account settings on any licensed site.
Self-Exclusion
GAMSTOPis the UK's national self-exclusion scheme. Registering with GAMSTOP excludes you from all UKGC-licensed gambling websites and apps for a minimum of six months. It is free and takes effect within 24 hours.
Free Support Services
- GAMSTOP — Self-exclude from all UK-licensed operators in one step.
- GamCare — Free counselling, support groups, and a 24-hour helpline: 0808 8020 133.
- GambleAware — Information, tools, and referrals to specialist treatment services.
- UK Gambling Commission — The regulator for all licensed gambling in Great Britain.
Warning Signs
- Spending more than you planned to
- Chasing losses to win back money
- Hiding gambling from family or friends
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
If any of these apply to you, please reach out to one of the support services listed above. Help is free, confidential, and available now.